Roche's Pick for Next CEO
Marks a Bet on Diagnostics

The designation of Severin Schwan as the next chief executive officer of Roche Holding AG marks the Swiss drug giant's growing emphasis on machines and other tools that help diagnose and monitor disease.

Mr. Schwan, 40 years old, currently leads Roche's diagnostics division. His elevation, set to take place in March, emphasizes the importance Roche places on that business. While Roche has said diagnostics will be crucial to treating disease in the future, few other drug companies have bet so heavily on the field.